GR - Trainee Healthcare Support Workers

Overview

NHS Lothian is dedicated to delivering outstanding patient care through its Nursing and Midwifery Strategic Plan which embodies the organisation's Vision, Ambitions, and Values. Central to this mission is a collaborative and person-centered approach to ensure compassionate, safe, and effective healthcare. The organisation actively supports diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from various backgrounds to contribute to and grow within its workforce.

Role Description

The Band 3 Trainee Healthcare Support Worker position is designed for individuals with relevant prior experience who are motivated to develop their skills. Initially, successful candidates will be employed at Band 2 pay while completing necessary clinical education and competency training led by NHS Lothian's Education and Training team. Upon successful completion, typically within 9 to 12 months, progression to the full Band 3 salary and responsibilities will occur. Please note, this role does not qualify for UK Home Office Certificate of Sponsorship due to salary thresholds.

Work Locations

Various vacancies exist across multiple locations including Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh (Emergency Department, various wards, Acute Medical Unit, Theatres), St Johns Hospital (Emergency Departments, wards, Critical Care, Theatres), Western General Hospital (Medical Assessment Unit, wards, Minor Injuries, Radiotherapy, Theatres), Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, East Lothian Community Hospital, Royal Edinburgh Hospital, Edinburgh Partnership, Midlothian Partnership, HMP Addiewell, West Lothian Partnership, among others. The list of openings is extensive and constantly updated. Applicants should indicate their preferred areas during application.

Recruitment Process

The recruitment follows a values and competency-based framework aligned with NHS Lothian's Strategic Plan ambitions. Only one application and interview are required, with subsequent decisions factoring in applicants' skills, experience, and preferences to best match available vacancies. Interviews are expected to be held at the Comely Bank Centre, Edinburgh.

Additional Information

• Internal NHS Lothian Band 3 candidates are directed to the internal transfer process instead of external recruitment.
• The workweek will be reduced from 37 to 36 hours from April 1, 2026, with adjusted hourly rates to maintain pay.
• Applications may close early due to high interest; early submission is advised.
• Due to volume, individual application feedback will not be provided.
• Applicants are encouraged to authentically represent themselves in their applications and use AI tools only as supportive aids, not for direct content creation.

Contact and Career Support

Informal visits or tours to any clinical area can be arranged via the Generic Recruitment Team email. Additional career guidance and information about NHS Lothian opportunities can be found through their careers website.